FAA Proposes New Landings Aided by Flight Vision Systems

FAA is proposing a new landing procedure for operators using aircraft equipped with Enhanced Flight Vision Systems (EFVS), in an effort to increase access and throughput at airports when low visibility conditions are present.

The agency published a notice of proposed rulemaking regarding EFVS landings on Tuesday, outlining requirements for pilots that rely on natural vision within 100 feet of the landing point on the runway. If confirmed as a final rule, pilots would be able to use EFVS systems, which provide real-time runway imagery, in place of natural vision.

Under the rule, FAA is only accepting vision systems equipped with forward looking infrared imaging.

"The FAA also believes that an EFVS can provide operational and safety benefits during Category II and Category III operations, especially as more advanced imaging sensor capabilities are developed which function more effectively in lower visibility conditions," FAA said in the proposed rule.

Current regulations permit the use of EFVS for landings when pilots operating under parts 121, 125 and 135 are entering airports where visibility conditions are below authorized minimums.

FAA is also proposing new part 61 training requirements to ensure a safe transition to EFVS landings for pilots who have never performed them before, but would be eligible to with EFVS-equipped aircraft.

The agency has set a deadline of September 2013 for comments to be submitted regarding the rule.